Are The Lakers Guaranteed to make the NBA Finals?
The Los Angeles Lakers are one of the most successful teams in NBA history and have a good chance of winning the NBA championship this season. According to BetMGM, the Lakers are tied for the fifth-best odds at +12001. However, it’s important to note that these odds can change throughout the season based on various factors such as injuries, trades, and team performance.
As LeBron enters his 21st season there is no hint of him stepping off the gas pedal. He is still one of, if not the most, dominant player in the league. The Lakers will go as he goes, however, that’s not to say the pressure is all on him.
Anthony Davis, Diangelo Russel, Rui Hachimura, and Austin Reaves are the key players as of right now to help support LeBron. To me, Rui Hachimura and Austin Reaves are the players with room to step up and shoulder more of the load.
Austin Reaves, the undrafted free agent turned starting shooting guard for the Los Angeles Lakers, has been ranked 14th on Hoops Hype’s updated shooting guard list for the 2023-2024 NBA season. Reaves’ efficiency in the playoffs, averaging 16.9 points, 4.4 rebounds, and 4.6 assists while shooting 44.3 percent from three-point range, has earned him recognition. However, there is still room for improvement in several areas both on and off the floor. His shooting, passing and ballhandling are already strong, but there’s room to grow.
Some of Austin Reaves’ weaknesses include athleticism and quickness. He sometimes struggles to get around athletic defenders and guard quick guards. Reaves may have difficulty staying on the floor defensively in the NBA, as NBA guards and athletes may hunt the matchup as much as possible. Improving in these areas could help Reaves become an even more valuable player for the Lakers.
Rui Hachimura, the power forward for the Los Angeles Lakers, has shown great potential and has made significant improvements in his game. However, there are still areas where he can improve. One of Hachimura’s most glaring weaknesses thus far in his career has been his lack of defensive impact. While he has great size and length at 6’8″ with a 7’2″ wingspan, he isn’t particularly good at protecting the rim and can get lost off the ball. He also struggles with his technique and positioning. Improving in these areas could help Hachimura become an even more valuable player for the Lakers.
If both players can improve on their weaknesses I can see the Lakers becoming one of the main teams to watch in the NBA playoffs.